Notes on Stephen Hawking's Legacy

Introduction

• Stephen Hawking passed away on March 14, 2018, at the age of 76.

Major Contributions

• Discovery about Black Holes
  • Proved that black holes emit radiation, known as Hawking radiation.
  • Black holes do not just absorb matter; they also lose mass over time.
  • If a black hole does not receive a continuous supply of matter, it can shrink in size and eventually disappear.

Last Words and Life Philosophy

• Final Book: "Brief Answers to the Big Questions"

  • Completed by family after his passing, addressing intriguing questions he received during his life.

• Beliefs:

  • Identified as an atheist; denied the existence of God or a higher being.
  • Expressed that the universe operates by the laws of nature rather than divine intervention.
  • Rejected the idea that disability is a curse from God, preferring a naturalistic explanation for existence.

• Personal Message:

  • Advised to look up at the stars rather than down at feet.
  • Encouraged curiosity and the pursuit of understanding the universe.
  • Stressed that regardless of life's challenges, there is always something one can do and succeed at.

Conclusion

• Stephen Hawking’s insights and messages continue to inspire curiosity and a quest for knowledge in understanding the universe.